Angela A. from Frisco asks:
"I just got a Dachshund puppy from a city shelter and want to make sure she gets all the correct shots. What should I expect at her first vet visit?"

Dr. Manley's Reply:
"Hi Angela,

Thank you for rescuing a pet! Your new puppy needs a complete physical exam to detect immediate health issues (some pets acquire respiratory infections during their stay at the shelter). To treat and control parasites, your puppy will be dewormed and tested for parasites (be sure to deworm your pet even if the test is negative because worm tests only have a 80% accuracy rate). Start your puppy on heartworm prevention. Her first set of vaccinations should also be given. Be sure to keep your pet isolated from other pets for 3 weeks because she might be incubating an infection that could be transmitted. Do not take her to any public places until her last set of vaccinations have been given. Feel free to discuss house training and proper nutrition with your veterinarian.

Thanks for the question....Dr. Manley"

Dr. Cleveland Manley, Jr. is one of the wonderful veterinarians at VCA Pet Doctor in Richardson, TX. He is a graduate of Texas A&M University - College of Veterinary Medicine.